Question

In β− decay producing 90Y, the parent nuclide is a major waste product of reactors and has chemistry similar to calcium, concentrating in bones if ingested. What is the parent nuclide in this decay?

a) 90Y
b) 238U
c) 90Sr
d) 137Cs

Answer 1

The parent nuclide in β- decay producing 90Y is 90Sr (Strontium-90), which undergoes β- decay by emitting an electron to become 90Y.

Step-by-step explanation:

The parent nuclide in β- decay producing 90Y is a major waste product of reactors, has chemistry similar to calcium, and can concentrate in bones if ingested. This parent nuclide is 90Sr (Strontium-90). When 90Sr undergoes β- decay, it turns into 90Y by emitting an electron (beta particle). This can be represented by the nuclear equation:

^{90}_{38}Sr → ^{90}_{39}Y + e^{-} + ¯\\u_{e}

The e^{-} represents the beta particle (electron) and ¯\\u_{e} represents the antineutrino.